Privacy & Landlord Entry Checklist for Newfoundland Tenants

Tenants in Newfoundland and Labrador have clear legal rights when it comes to privacy and when a landlord can enter their rental home. Understanding these rights is essential for feeling secure and confident in your living space — and for responding appropriately if you think your privacy has been violated. This guide covers your rights, best practices, and official forms so you know exactly what to expect from landlord entry, notice periods, and privacy protections under Newfoundland and Labrador law.

What Are Your Privacy Rights as a Tenant?

Tenants are entitled to privacy in their rental home. Your landlord can enter only for specific legal reasons, with required notice. The main rules about privacy and landlord entry are found in the Residential Tenancies Act (Newfoundland and Labrador)^[1].

Landlords must respect your right to peaceful enjoyment of your home, except for situations permitted by law. Typical reasons for entry include repairs, inspections, showings, or emergencies.

When Can a Landlord Enter Your Rental Unit?

Your landlord can legally enter your rental in the following cases:

• In an emergency: No notice required, such as a fire or urgent water leak.
• To make repairs or inspect the property: At least 24 hours written notice is required.
• To show the unit to prospective tenants or buyers: At least 24 hours notice, within reasonable hours.
• If you agree: You can provide advance permission for a specific date and time.

Notice must state the reason and time for entry, and visits must occur between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m., unless you agree to something else.

Landlord Entry Checklist for Tenants

• Check if you received at least 24 hours written notice (except in emergencies).
• Confirm the notice states the reason and timing for entry.
• Ensure the visit is between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.
• Ask for clarification if the reason is unclear or seems unnecessary.
• Document visits—keep a record of all notices and landlord entries.

If your landlord fails to provide proper notice or enters without your consent or legal reason, you may file a complaint with the provincial Residential Tenancies Office (RTO).

Official Forms for Privacy and Entry Issues

If you believe your privacy has been violated or your landlord has entered improperly, you can take action through the RTO. Here are key forms tenants may need:

• Application for Dispute Resolution (Form 12): Use this form to ask the RTO to resolve disputes about landlord entry, privacy breaches, or other issues. For example, file Form 12 if your landlord repeatedly enters without proper notice. Download Form 12 (Official PDF).
• Complaint/Inquiry Form: Tenants can also use the complaint/inquiry form for less formal concerns, such as requesting advice from the RTO before escalating to a formal application. View the Complaint/Inquiry Form (PDF).

To file, complete the form, attach any evidence (emails, notes, etc.), and submit it to your nearest RTO office. The forms can be found on the official Residential Tenancies Office website.^[2]

Tips for Protecting Your Rights

• Politely raise concerns with your landlord first if privacy is breached — many issues can be resolved quickly.
• If issues persist, contact the RTO for advice or file a dispute resolution form.
• Review both tenant and landlord obligations — see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained for more context.

Emergency Entry and Repairs

In emergencies, landlords may enter without prior notice. However, such situations are narrowly defined (e.g., sudden flooding, fire). For urgent repair concerns, see Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities.

If your landlord claims an emergency entry but it's questionable, you can request clarification or involve the RTO.

Your Province-Specific Tenant Rights

Learn more about rental rights for tenants and landlords in Newfoundland and Labrador, including privacy, entry, deposits, repairs, and dispute resolution on the Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador page.

Find the Right Rental or Report Listing Issues

For a wide selection of local rentals, including privacy-focused homes, Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings.

1. Can my landlord enter my home without notice in Newfoundland and Labrador?
   Only in emergencies, such as in the event of fire, flood, or urgent repairs, can a landlord enter without notice. For all other reasons, written notice is required.
2. How much notice does my landlord need to give before entering?
   Your landlord must provide at least 24 hours written notice before entering for inspections, repairs, or showings, unless you waive this requirement.
3. What can I do if my landlord enters without my permission?
   Keep a record of each entry, then contact your landlord to resolve the issue. If repeated, you can file a dispute with the Residential Tenancies Office using Form 12.
4. Is there a specific time of day a landlord can enter?
   Yes. Entry must occur between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m., unless you preschedule an alternative with your landlord.
5. Are there resources to learn about other rental rights and obligations?
   Yes, the Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador page covers more about deposits, ending tenancies, and tenant protections.

1. How do I file a complaint if my landlord keeps entering without permission?
   1. Collect evidence (notices, dates of entry).
   2. Try to resolve directly with your landlord in writing.
   3. If it continues, complete and submit Form 12 (Application for Dispute Resolution) to the Residential Tenancies Office.
   4. Attach all records or evidence.
   5. Attend a hearing if scheduled.
2. How do I fill out and submit Form 12 (Application for Dispute Resolution)?
   Download Form 12 from the government website, fill in the details of your issue, attach supporting documents, and submit it by mail, in person, or by email to your local RTO office.
3. What should I do if I feel unsafe after a privacy breach?
   Consider changing the locks (with landlord permission). Contact the police if you feel threatened, and file a formal complaint with the RTO.

Key Takeaways for Newfoundland and Labrador Tenants

• Landlords must give at least 24 hours’ written notice before most entries.
• You have the right to privacy and peaceful enjoyment of your home.
• The Residential Tenancies Office is your official resource for complaints and resolution.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Newfoundland and Labrador Residential Tenancies Office (RTO) – Official dispute resolution, forms, and laws
• Read the Residential Tenancies Act (full text)
• For advocacy or support, contact local tenant support organizations (e.g., Public Legal Information Association of NL: publiclegalinfo.com)

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1. [1] Residential Tenancies Act (Newfoundland and Labrador)
2. [2] Residential Tenancies Office

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